As a result of continuous persuasion by leaders of United Forum of unions and associations of MTNL at different levels and recent meeting with Sh. Amit Yadav Joint Secy. (Admn) at Sanchar Bhawan on 20.12.206 , proposal regarding fitment of 78.2 % IDA to employees has been finally sent from MTNL to DOT on Wednesday i.e on 22.12.2016. We on behalf of TEAM and UFOM are committed to get this issue resolved very soon.

21.12.2016

On 20.12.2016 the representatives of United Forum of MTNL Unions and Associations Sh. Mange Ram Sharma President ,Sh. M.K.Bagchi Convener , Sh.A.K.Kaushik GS TEAM and Sh. Rajib Kumar AGS TEAM have met Jt. Secretary (Admin) DOT on the issue of merger of 78.2% IDA with pay effectively at 50 % of IDA.

Jt. Secretary (Admin) tried to explain that financial condition of MTNL is a matter of serious concern. MTNL has no resources to bear the additional load for this. However, he has clarified that he is opened mind in this respect and he is not sole authority to take call on this.

20.12.2016

On 19.12.2016 GS along with Sh. V.P.Bhardwaj JGS ,Sh.K.R.Yadav President Delhi Circle, Sh. S.P.S.Yadav CS Delhi and Sh. Ajay Kumar CFS met the CMD to discuss the issue of revival of MTNL , Various HR issues and merger of 78.2 % IDA .

For Revival of MTNL various points were discussed with CMD. We suggested valuable points with regards to up-gradation of switches, cable network, OFC system, Broad band and for GSM. CMD agreed to our points and asked us to give these proposals during the proposed meeting to be called by management on this issue.

During the discussion with CMD on various issues , it has been observed that the attitude & Approach of CMD MTNL towards the long pending issues related to 78.2 % IDA neutralization w.e.f. 01.01.2007 and on various HR issues , is not positive at all. We therefore appeal to all the employees of MTNL (Executives as well as no-executives) to come together and geared up themselves against the anti-employees attitude of MTNL management. We have to fight out against these forces with unity who are responsible for the present situation of MTNL & its employees.

The representatives of United forum of MTNL Unions and associations Sh. Mange Ram Sharma (President), Sh. M.K.Bagchi (convener) and Sh. Rajib Kumar AGS of TEAM met with Member Services DOT on 19.12.2016 on the issue of CGHS for MTNL pensioners.

Member (Service) was apprised of the problems related to implementations of CGHS and views of CGHS in this respect. DDG (E) was also present in the discussion.

Member(Services) directed to DDG(E) to arrange to hold a meeting involving the concerned units of CGHS to sort out the issues for smooth implementation of CGHS facilities.

20.12.2016

Much awaited regular promotion list for 439 executives from JTO to SDE was declared by Corporate office today. TEAM congratulate to each successful executive for their new responsibility.

State-run telecom firm MTNL reported a standalone net loss of Rs 768.32 crore for the quarter ended on September 30, 2016, against that of Rs 730.35 crore in the same period a year ago. Net revenue from operations declined to Rs 729.2 crore during the said quarter from Rs 774.18 crore in the corresponding period of 2015-16. The company’s revenues from both mobile and landline services were lower in the quarter compared to the year-ago period. A news from Money Control..

our case against LICE for promotion from E2 to E3 was on list for hearing in CAT on 07.12.2016 but it could not be heard and next date of hearing has been given as 7th February 2017.

09.12.2016

Congratulation !!! Congratulation !!! Congratulation !!!

It has been reliably learnt that MTNL Board has approved the neutralization of 78.2 % IDA with effect from 01.01.2007 and this matter is supposed to be send to DOT for further approval and financial support.

United Forum of Unions and Associations Delhi and Mumbai pursued this matter with MTNL management since beginning of this year and pressurized management with many Protest action Programs. We sincerely thank to each executive and employees for achievement of this 1st phase of success. Although every one is to be careful until goal is achieved.

03.12.2016

MTNL: Struggling to achieve a turnaround..While Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is exhibiting signs of revival, the other state-run operator, Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL), continues to remain in the red. The latter has been running in losses since 2009-10, except for 2013-14 when it posted a profit of Rs 78.25 billion. Even this one-time profit was not a sign of improved performance, but the result of government support in the form of a write-back of provisions for pension liabilities and spectrum amortisation costs.

In 2015-16, MTNL posted a consolidated loss of Rs 20.12 billion as against a loss of Rs 29.01 billion in 2014-15. This reduction in losses was achieved on the back of a decline in expenditure, from Rs 53.27 billion in 2014-15 to Rs 51.67 billion in 2015-16. Meanwhile, the operator’s income from operations declined from Rs 34.94 billion to Rs 33.03 billion during the same period.

MTNL’s dismal performance over the years has been on account of growing competition, decreasing tariffs, significant spectrum-related payouts and high burden of employee remuneration. Further, poor service quality has resulted in a steep decline in subscriber numbers. The network test report released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in June 2016 showed MTNL plunging on all service quality parameters. A news from www.tele.net.in.

MTNL facing ‘serious’ debt problems, says govt : Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd ( MTNL ) is facing “serious” debt problem and is borrowing money to meet its day-to-day requirements, government said today. “In case of MTNL, it has been going slow in upgradation of equipment during the last 4-5 years due to severe financial problems. MTNL is under serious debt burden and is borrowing money to meet its day to day requirements,” Communications Minister Manoj Sinha said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. He said that due to non-investment in access networkof fixed lines, service quality issues do come up. However, in the wireless segment, MTNL has placed the order of mobile expansion and upgradation for an amount of Rs 348 crore during the current and the last financial year. “BSNL and MTNL are meeting almost all of the Quality of Service benchmarks prescribed by TRAI. However, to improve their service both the PSUs are focusing on upgradation of equipment and infrastructure,” Sinha said.A news from Money Control…..

TEAM appeals to each executive of MTNL to participate in the scheduled demonstration programme given by United Forum of Union & Association of MTNL Delhi and Mumbai . The demonstration will be held on 23rd November 2016 during Lunch Hour at CGO Complex New Delhi and at Telephone House Mumbai.

MTNL Board is not considering any legitimate demand of employees and on contrary bringing proposals like reducing age of superannuation , implementing clause 56 J etc and adopting negative tactics for delaying regular promotions of all caders. We have to be very cautioned and careful for saving future of all employees and executives. Unity is the only answer to each question before us . Please be united and exhibit your 100% strength on the day and time as stated above.

22.11.2016

It is reliably learnt that DPC for regular promotion for the post of Deputy Manager (SDE) for nearly 508 candidates has been completed on 18 November 2016 and after some formalities the list of successful executives will be announced within next week.

19.11.2016

United Forum wrote a letter to Chairman Telecom commission & Secy. DOT and CMD MTNL , wherein further programme of Protest Action Programme in support of long pending legitimate demands has been conveyed to them.

The programme of demonstration at CGO office during Lunch Hour on 23rd November 2016 in New Delhi and at the same time and date on Telephone House Mumbai are scheduled. It is appealed to each executive and employee of MTNL to take part in mass for making this programme a grand success.

Sh. R.B.Aggarwal AS West area organised a meeting on 17.11.2016 with GM(West) to discuss various points viz. shortage of material in filed, shortage of staff etc. Sh. S.P.S. Yadav CS , Sh. Rajeeb Kumar AGS, Sh. Sh Rajeeb Kumar,Sh R D Ahirwar OS,Sh shalendra singh ACS,.Sh Kulwant singh DS,sh R K Tiwari Executive member and Sh S K saini Executive member were present from Association side. While General manager Sh A K singh along with Dy GM(A) Sh Gauri Shanker and AGM(A) Sh E P Malik were present from management side. Many points like shortage of vehicle, staff and materials were discussed and GM(West) assured for best solution of problems for smooth work in area.

16.11.2016

It has been reliably learnt that board meeting of MTNL management held yesterday and a) no decision could be taken on 78.2% IDA neutralization. b) the report submitted by consultant company was discussed c) no decision on reduction of age.

It is clear that MTNL management did not show any worry for agitating workforce for their legitimate rights.

15.11.2016

As asked by MTNL corporate office , suggestions for revival of MTNL were sent from TEAM in form of a letter.

A meeting of Associations /Unions of MTNL Delhi and Mumbai Unit was called by Dir(HR) in the committee room of corporate office New Delhi. Representatives of Mumbai were available on Video conferencing . Various officers of Corporate office from different sections were present in the meeting with Dir. Hr and Dir. Tech. Sh. V.P.Bhardwaj JGS led the delegation of Circle and CHQ office bearers from Delhi and In Mumbai TEAM Delegation was led by Sh. R.R.Mishra Circle Secy. Mumbai Unit. The representatives of consultant company showed a presentation on revival of company . Thereafter it was asked to one representative of each association to put the views on the report submitted by consultant company for revival of MTNL.

Consultant company placed many suggestion like better commercial plan for services of MTNL, Demand of VRS burden from Govt., utilization of land and buildings of MTNL for rent etc, cut down in superannuation age of employees to 58 and more….All most all representatives of associations placed their views. From TEAM Sh. V.P.Bhardwaj JGS strongly opposed the suggestion given for reducing age of superannuation by consultant company. It was made clear that this type of suggestions cannot be accepted. Other than this any move for financial revival of company which does not affect interest of employees will be welcomed. JGS expressed deep concern over non settlement of HR issues of employees because of neglecting attitude of management and told that without resolving long pending HR issues and financial issues of employees/executives revival of company is not possible. However management asked views of each organisation in writing and same was assured from our side that a copy of valuable suggestion will be made over at earliest.

11.11.2016

UFOM wrote a letter to CMD MTNL with regard to suspected move of reducing superannuation age of employees to 58.Wherein the protest / resistance on such probable action has been lodged.

A meeting of constituents of UFOM was held in room no.756 of Kidwai Bhawan ND on 08.11.2016 to discuss the further action plan for achieving long pending demands .A detailed discussion took place on the subject and at the end of meeting it was concluded that next phase of protest action programme is to started soon . As 1st date of protest action programme 23.11.2016 was fixed for lunch hour demonstration at CGO Complex ND.

09.11.2016

GS TEAM and other associations/unions have been invited by Dir.HR on 11.11.2016 for a meeting to be held in conference room at fifth floor of Corporate office CGO complex.The agenda of meeting is suggestion for revival of MTNL.

TEAM leadership on various occasions have expressed their views and solid proposals before management with regards to same subject. But even then on call of management we will further elaborate our view points in the said meeting. In this connection we appeal to one and all whatever best practicable suggestions are anticipated by your good self that may kindly be shared on our WhatsApp groups or over telephone to your area representatives or CHQ office bearers.

MTNL may soon offer VRS worth Rs 1000 crore to employees:Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) employees may soon get a voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) offer of Rs 1000 crore, following an approval from the Telecom Commission, the highest policy making body of the department of telecommunications (DoT), in April this year. A news from Economic Times……

All are informed that CEC of TEAM Delhi will be held on 09.11.2016 (Wednesday) in room no.756 of Kidwai Bhawan ND to discuss the next phase of protest action programme to be given by UFOM to achieve our long pending demands. DS/AS/CEC Members/ Circle Office members/CHQ members present in Delhi are requested to attend the meeting positively.

06.11.2016

On the basis of findings of DPC for regular promotion from JTO (AM) to SDE (DM) Technical , Corporate office issued a letter to GM(Admin) Delhi and Mumbai ,wherein APAR of 37 Executives have been again asked from respective Circles which are incomplete and status of 2 APAR is asked which is below bench mark. The required information is to be sent by respective circles to Corporate Office by 8th November 2016 as DPC is again scheduled on 10 November 2016.

A general Body meeting of North Area was organised on 04.11.2016 by Area Secy. Sh. Pradeep Gupta at Sec-3 Rohini telephone exchange building during lunch hours . The meeting was attended by more than 60 members and circle , CHQ office bearers. From CHQ JGS Sh. V.P.Bhardwaj , AGS Sh. Mahesh Kukreti, AGS Sh. Rajib Kumar and from Circle CS Sh. S.P.S.Yadav and OS Sh. R.D.Ahirwar were present.

The meeting was presided by Sh. D.B.Sharma AOS. Thereafter members shared their views with regards to local problems. Leaders from Circle and CHQ patiently heard to problems and then addressed the meeting. Circle secy. assured the gathering that the problems of area members will be taken with Area GM. He asked members to be ready for further protest action programme .

JGS Sh. V.P.Bharadwaj ji addressed the house and made aware of developments taken at corporate office and then he asked members to be ready for protest action programme to be announced by UFOM shortly. He replied to the quarries of members related to HR issues.The meeting was ended with vote of thanks given by President.

03.11.2016

Freecharge partners with MTNL for easy bill payments :Digital wallet company Freecharge has partnered with MTNLBSE 1.01 % (Mahanagar Telephone Nigam) to provide a swift and secure way to make cashless payments for MTNL bills in Mumbai.

Freecharge will also offer features like auto-enroll and bill reminders so that MTNL customers don’t have to worry about forgetting bill due dates and incurring late fee charges on delayed payments. The 10-second payment of utility bills and reminders for recurring payments is part of Freecharge’s aim to help customer transactions fast, secure and convenient.

“We are pleased to partner with MTNL, one of the largest providers of landline and broadband services in Mumbai. We are the first and only wallet provider to tie-up with MTNL and through this partnership, Freecharge can potentially serve the 4.5 million registered users of MTNL in Mumbai. Through this association, we aim to help MTNL streamline its payment processes and move away from managing cash and truly go digital,” said Govind Rajan, CEO, Freecharge. A news from Economic Times…….

MTNL gets breather, NITI says no proposal of disinvestment or closure on cards:Employees of state-run Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) have reason to cheer as the Government has ruled out the disinvestment plan for the time being. After massive protests by employees’ union of MTNL, NITI Aayog has cleared the air, saying that as of now there is no such proposal of strategic sale or closure of the Government-owned telecom firm.

In a response letter issued on October 14, 2016, which is in possession with The Pioneer, Niti Aayog Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amitabh Kant wrote to Arvind Sawant, Member of Parliament (MP) in Lok Sabha, “I would like to inform you that there is no proposal under consideration of the NITI Aayog at present for closure or disinvestment of the MTNL.” A news from The Pioneer…..

On 26.10.2016 CHQ president Sh. N.L.Thangraj along with CHQ and Circle office bearers of Delhi, met newly selected CMD MTNL Sh. P.K.Purwar at his office. Director HR Sh. Sunil Kumar was also present on the occasion. A flower bouquet was presented to him and TEAM greeted him for his regular appointment as CMD MTNL. He thanked us and ask us to join our hands with management for financial revival of MTNL. Our association assured him for full support for touching the height of excellence . We kept our view points on various ways for financial revival of company and conveyed our best wishes for his successful tenure as chief executive of company.

In response to a letter written by Hon’ble member of Parliament Sh. Arwind Sawant the CEO of NIti Aayog written a letter to him for clarification with regards to sale out news of MTNL. Wherein he made clear that there is no such proposal with Niti Aayog as on date on this matter.

our case against LICE for promotion from E2 to E3 was on list for hearing in CAT on 21.10.2016 but it could not be heard and next date of hearing has been given as 7th December 2016.

18.10.2016

Cabinet may clear stake sale in 20 PSUs tomorrow: The cabinet is expected to clear the plan to cut majority stake in around 20 state-run firms on Wednesday, including several profit-making entities, signalling a restart of equity sale in public sector companies after a 12-year gap.There will also be a detailed review of the plan to shed 10% stake in public sector general insurance companies, a move aimed at helping the insurers raise funds to take on private sector players.“The aim is to ensure that these PSUs are run professionally and there is greater value in these entities, paving the way for the government to dilute its stake in the years ahead,” said a source. Another source said it was a mix of profit and loss-making entities. A news from Times of India….Please click here for link to news

17.10.2106

It is reliably learnt that DPC for much awaited regular promotion from JTO to SDE is scheduled for tomorrow. As soon as DPC work will be completed the list for successful executives will be declared.

07.10.2016

On our request a meeting with Minister of Communication Sh. Manoj Sinha ji was granted to TEAM on 06.10.2016 at 03.50 pm . Accordingly GS along with VP CHQ Sh. Ramneek Sharma ,AGS Sh. Rajeeb Kumar, CP Sh. K.R.Yadav, CS Sh. S.P.S.Yadav and CFS Sh. Ajay Kumar met with him at his office at Sanchar Bhawan New Delhi.

1.We have discussed the issue of revival of MTNL. We explained him in detail that the executives and employees of MTNL want to revive MTNL and very much keen to provide our best efficient and uninterrupted services to our esteemed subscribers but due to lack of material and resources, the employees & executives of Delhi and Mumbai feel themselves handicap.

2.We have requested the Hon’ble Minister for merger of BSNL & MTNL and explained him in length that by doing this MTNL as well as BSNL will save thousands of crores which are being paid in name of license fee and different taxes. We will serve to nation as PAN India services. Merger will provide second life to both company which are presently fighting against heavy loss year by year.

3.We have also requested the Hon’ble Minister for implementation of 78.2% IDA merger in accordance with the orders of Govt. of India dated 02.04.2009. We have also told him that MTNL management has implemented the 7th Pay Commission recommendation for the officers on deputation but not implementing the 78.2 % IDA for its employees and Executives.

Hon’ble Minister Sh. Manoj Sinha Ji assured us to look into issues which we have handed over to him in form of Memorandums . He assured us to call for another meeting for detailed discussion on these matters. Furthermore he assured us that he will take care of 40 thousand employees and executives and their families working in MTNL. Our proposal of merger of BSNL and MTNL will also be taken into consideration for revival of BSNL and MTNL.

Status in Hon’ble Supreme Court of India regarding the court cases on the seniority of TES Gr.”B” Officers in DoT/BSNL/MTNL:

The Court case on the above matter could not be listed on 04.10.2016 for hearing in the Hon’ble Supreme Court. Probably on 18th October 2016 the case may be heard.

01.10.2016

BSNL, MTNL to provide Wi-Fi services at 100 tourist places :BSNL and MTNLBSE 1.28 % will provide Wi-Fi facilities at 100 tourist destinations across the country with the Union Tourism Ministry inking agreements with the state-run telecom service providers to this effect.

A total of 100 tourist places, including world heritage sites, will be identified where the service will be provided within the next six months, Tourism Secretary Vinod Zutshi said today. BSNL and MTNL will provide the service for seven years with the Tourism Ministry bearing the operational cost for the first three years, he added. A news from Economic Times…

It is reliably learnt that expected hike in IDA w.e.f. 01.10.2016 is 5.5%.New IDA rate will be 120.3%

29.09.2016

Status of the court case on the issue of ITS Absorption in the Hon’ble Principal Bench of CAT New Delhi:

The Case filed under OA 1283/2013_SNEA & Ors vs. UOI & Ors on the issue of ITS Absorption in the Hon’ble Principal Bench of CAT New Delhi was listed for hearing on 27.09.2016 as Item No. 25 in Court No. 2 before a bench comprising the Ld. Members Mr. Sudhir Kumar and Mr. B. Avtar. Mr. Rajshekhar Rao assisted by Mr. Varun Mishra, appeared on behalf of the Applicants. Counsels for DOT and BSNL were also present.

Mr. Rao apprised the bench of the facts of the case and the various High Court Orders issued from time to time whereby extension was sought by DOT, and was expressly rejected by the High Court. The Counsel for DOT again sought time to argue the matter in view of the pendency of the Contempt Petition. Mr. Rao informed the Bench that DOT had already taken 3 opportunities to argue the matter, and adjournments were repeatedly sought on account of the unavailability of the Ld. ASG. However, the matter has been adjourned to 03.02.2017.

28.09.2016

Status in Hon’ble Supreme Court of India regarding the court cases on the seniority of TES Gr.”B” Officers in DoT/BSNL/MTNL:

The Court case on the above matter could not be listed on 27.09.2016 for hearing in the Hon’ble Supreme Court. As of now, there are no further orders of listing.

23.09.2016

ED Delhi issued a letter for asking executives for their interest for allotment of type V quarter .

Huge number of executives, non-executives and pensioners were gathered under banner of United Forum Of MTNL Unions and Associations in the Lunch Hour Demonstration held on 16.09.2016 in front of Corporate Office CGO Complex New Delhi.

Slogans were raised by employees/executives in support of our demands and against autocratic attitude of MTNL management. Thereafter gathering was addressed by different leaders of constituents of UFOM. President of UFOM Sh. Mange Ram Sharma addressed the meeting and shared the information of meeting held with the administration on 14.09.2016.

Sh. A.K.Kaushik GS addressed and cautioned all about different rumours being spread by Media with regards to Sale out option of MTNL. He made it very clear to one and all that we will try to protest to any such step up to any extent, but if any how Government will make it mind for sailing out this company then Government has to pay each paisa of the salary of employee irrespective of his retiring age. With regards to other point like CGHS facility, one more pro-rata option to pro-rata pensioners, he explained the developments on these issues. Further he explained the details of the meeting heldwith MTNL management with regards to demand of 78.2 % IDA neutralization. He made an appeal to all employees and executives that each one has to be ready for any emergency call of protest action programme. At last he thanked each one for gathering in huge numbers even in this hot weather.

A large number of executives, non-executives and pensioners participated in the Lunch Hour Demonstration held on 16.09.2016 in front of Prabhadevi Telephone House Mumbai.

After and amidst sloganeering by the members– leaders from all the constituents of the United Forum of MTNL Unions and Associations Mumbai, addressed the members apprising them of the progress which has taken place since the last demonstration. The speakers expressed hope that our agitation would be, rather ,in fact, has started yielding results .The arbitrary manner in which the CGHS was thought to be imposed has been halted, albeit, till 30-11-2016. They said that the Director(HR) ,in a meeting with United Forum leaders has said that till the CGHS queries are resolved the existing medical scheme of TPA would continue.

Regarding Pay revision with 78.2% IDA wef 1-1-2007–all speakers were optimistic that this has to be accepted by the MTNL management.

They further said that the issue of providing one more option to pro-rata optees for combined service pension is also under process and that the DOT has sought to know the financial implication of such option.

Almost all leaders stressed the need to maintain the similar tempo of our agitation and unity in future as there are talks of sell out of MTNL if media reports are to be believed .

Demonstration ended with vote of thanks followed, as usual , by the National Anthem.

All the points were discussed in length and details of the discussion are in the attached file for reference. With the content of discussion it may be concluded easily that nothing fruitful has come out of this meeting therefore We appeal all our colleague employees of MTNL Delhi and Mumbai to mobilize and intensify the ongoing agitation programme.

MTNL posts Rs 718 cr loss for Apr-Jun2016. A news from Business Standard.

SALE ONLY OPTION FOR TERMINALLY ILL MTNL!.. A news from Pioneer.

It is requested to each executive that please visit to every corner of your work area and convince each employee and executive for their active participation in demonstration scheduled to be held on 16.09.2016 during lunch hour at Corporate Office CGO Complex New Delhi in support of our legitimate demands. Please spread out to each corner of Delhi and be assemble in mass at CGO Complex on 16th Sep.2016. Raise your slogans for demands and exhibit your firm desire to achieve the goal.

M/S Deloittee India a consultancy firm has been engaged by MTNL for providing solutions for making MTNL Financial revival. In this context meetings of different leaders of union/associations were called on 08.09.2016 in the chamber of Director Technical. Our association also presented our views on this subject. From Management side Director Technical and GM(Technical) Corporate office and two executives of M/S Deloittee India were present for discussion. GS along with Circle and CHQ office bearers attended the meeting. Our Association kept our views boldly and explained each point in details.

Salary Bill of employees and executives: We explained that employees/ executives are not at all responsible for huge bill of salary. Before being converted to PSU It was a Government sector and at that time as per need of hour the employees/executives were recruited by than Government. Now in this era of electronics the need of man power has to be redefine by reorientation them again and again. Top Management failed to reorient our work force and to get the best output from them. It would have been better if management might have reoriented their work force by means of refreshers courses to make them aware of new technologies changing time to time. We are of view that employees are always assets for any organization and not liability.

VRS for Employees: We repeated our well known stand on this issue that we are dead against of any VRS option. We placed the figures before management that in last 3 VRS for employees and one for executives did not produce any fruitful solution for organization whereas good workers of company opted for VRS and left the company. We further explained that nearly 3000-3500 employees /executives are being retired yearly and effectively reducing our work force , if VRS is brought at this stage then this will further reduce our work force. Therefore VRS is not at all a good option for financial revival of company.

Maintenance and renovation of old infrastructure of MTNL: We accepted that this is big challenge which may help in turning out of company and it needs lot of finance. Without matching to the technology of current need we cannot survive in the competitive market and hence the renovation of infrastructure & changing over to new technologies are need of hour. We suggested that govt. if plans to give financial support in name of VRS that amount may be taken for infusing it for maintenance and renovation of our old infrastructure.

Merger of BSNL and MTNL: We suggested that the solution for financial revival of company is to merge MTNL with BSNL and for this, never it is too late. The merger of MTNL and BSNL will not only synergise the telecom capabilities of these two CPSUs this will also synergise the scope of opportunity to operate on PAN INDIA basis more effectively. These two companies if converted to one entity will save thousand of crores being paid by them in name of license fee and different taxes.

08.09.2016

It is reliably learnt that Vigilance clearance required for regular promotion from JTO to SDE, which was earlier expired ; has been sent again by both Units (i.e. Mumbai and Delhi) to Corporate office.

08.09.2016

GS wrote a memorandum to Hon’ble Minister of Communication for attracting his attention on our long pending demands and for merger of BSNL and MTNL.

It is for information to all that CEC Meeting of TEAM Delhi is scheduled to be held on 08.09.2016 at 14.00 hrs in room no. 756 of Kidwai Bhawan New Delhi to discuss the following agenda:

Lunch hour Demonstration on 16.09.2016 at CGO Complex a part of On Going Protest action programme of United Forum .

Organizational matters.

Any Other point with the permission of chair.

Please make sure for your valuable presence along with your innovative ideas for grand success of our programme. All DS/AS/ CEC Members/CWC Members/ Circle Office bearers/ CHQ office bearers present in Delhi are requested to present in the meeting positively along with their respective area colleagues.

05.09.2016

TEAM WISHES YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY GANESH CHATURTHI

01.09.2016

Former CMD and Member Service Sh. N.K.Yadav retired from service on 31.08.2016 . JGS sh. V.P.Bhardwaj along with AGS Sh. Rajib Kumar, CP Sh. K.R.Yadav, CS Sh. S.P.S.Yadav and CFS Sh. Ajay Kumar went to DOT at his office and greeted him with flower bouquet and offering a Shawl.

It is reliably learnt that DPC work for regular promotion from DE/Sr. Manager to DGM has been completed and list of promoted executives will be issued shortly.

26.08.2016

OVERWHELMING RESPONSE OF EXECUTIVES / EMPLOYEES

A massive dharna was successfully organised by United Forum of Union and Association on 24.08.2016 since 10 AM to 5.30 PM at Corporate Office CGO Complex New Delhi. Executives / employees from all corner of Delhi participated in Dharna. Leaders of all constituents of UFOM performed full day Hunger Strike. During Lunch Hour Demonstration was held wherein huge number of executives/employees gathered at Dharna Sthal for raising slogans in Support of our demands and to listen their leaders . The Programme was ended at 5.30 pm with determination to achieve our demands.

Our Mumbai Executives and Employees also organised a massive demonstration during Lunch Hour on same day at telephone House Prabha Devi. The demonstration was attended by nearly 900 employees/executives. Slogans were raised in support of our demands and thereafter leaders addressed the gathering.

It is for information to all executives that UFOM has organised one day Dharna and Hunger Strike ( by all leaders of constituents of UFOM) on 24.08.2016 since 10 AM to 5.30 PM at corporate office New Delhi in support of our long pending agenda of demands which include 78.2 % IDA neutralization pending since 01.01.2007 and one time option for Pro rata pensioners etc. Therefore it is requested to all executive to participate in day long dharna and Lunch Hour Demonstration (12.30 PM to 2.30 PM). Please reach to Dharna Sthal (Corporate office) positively and exhibit your unity and strength.

20.08.2016

GS wrote a letter to CMD with regards to our legitimate long pending demand of 78.2 % IDA neutralization , wherein he cautioned MTNL management for ignoring attitude of administration as executives are fighting this issue since long and frustration among them may lead to industrial unrest in the company.

Rotational Transfer of all the executives posted under long stay at one place

GM (BB-P&D) & GM (BB-O) assured to make a transfer policy for all executives under long stay (10 Years) at one place.

Resourceful management of executives /Equipment. We raised the issue of no proper seating arrangements of executives, no proper tools for speed testing of leased line in GM(BB-P&D) and no drinking water or rest room for shift duty officers and many more.

GM (BB-P&D) & GM (BB-O) assured, try to fulfil all the requirement of executives related to resourceful use of manpower or equipment.

Provision of vehicles at odd hours for fault management

GM(BB_P&D) & GM(BB-O) agree with this point that there is shortage of vehicle and assured us that he will try to increase budget of transport allowance from 10,000 to 20,000 and also try to increase the number of vehicles at least one vehicle should be available for each DE unit.

No SDE’s should be deployed on shift duty as they are call duty officers We strongly object the shift duty of SDE

GM(BB-P&D) told that he is try to intake more TTA’s and new recruited JTO for shift duty and he also told that he is trying clarification regarding the same from GM(A)HQ .

The meeting ended in a cordial atmosphere.

19.08.2016

AS NP (South) Sh. S.P.Singh asked a meeting with GM(South), which was granted and held on 26.07.2016 . The following points were discussed

1)Shortage of Man and Materials

2) Unjustified distribution of vehicles.

3)Unjustified posting of officers for higher responsibilities.

GM (South ) took positive steps for removing discrepancies in distribution of vehicles and with regards to posting of officers. Minutes of this meeting were issued and necessary orders were also implemented.

Important views on questionnaire with details…….What should be the minimum and the maximum pay in CPSEs? What should be the reasonable ratio between them?Minimum Pay should be Rs. 50,400 and the Maximum Pay should be Rs. 5,00,000 in CPSEs. A ratio of 1:4 would be a reasonable one. While Coining New Pay Scales it should be so ensured the minimum of the scale so fixed should not be less than the amount arrived at by adding Fitment amount on Pay+DA to avoid pay loss to the new entrants.Further those who are on Rolls as on 01-01-2017 should not draw less than the amount to avoid drop in Emoluments arrived at as per Fitment Formulae(Basic Pay plus IDA and Fitment % there off). Justification for “Multiplication Factor”Calculation of IDA as on 01.01.2017: CPI (IW) for June-2016 is 277 and assuming it to be 284 for Nov-2016; IDA rate on 01-01-2017 may be assumed about 124.8%. For IDA merger it may be equalled as 50+50+24.8. Now suppose basic pay/pension is Rs. 100.Merger of 50% IDA: IDA becomes Rs 50 hence new basic pay/pension is 100+50= Rs 150.Merger of next 50% IDA: Now 50% IDA will be on new basic pay/pension of Rs 150 which comes out to be 150*50/100= Rs 75. Hence new basic pay/pension is 150+75= Rs 225.Merger of next 24.8% IDA: Now 24.8% IDA will be on new basic pay/pension of Rs 225 which comes out to be225*24.8/100= Rs 55.8. Hence new basic pay/pension is 225+55.8= Rs 280.8.Risk pay and Grade pay: Risk pay and grade pay were recommended by 2nd PRC but not allowed by then Government for CPSEs. Hence an additional of more than of 10% (of 280.8) should be added. Therefore new basic pay/pension comes out to be (280.8+28.08) =308.88.Dearness relief: Keeping in view an additional of minimum of 10% of old basic should be added.

Hence new basic pay/pension is 308.88+10

= Rs. 318.88

Fitment @ 30%

= Rs. 095.67

——————

Proposed pay after fitment

= Rs. 414.54

——————

Therefore a ‘Multiplication factor” of more than 4.1454 is fully justified to arrive at new basic pay/pension from old basic pay/pension. Accordingly, new IDA pay scales are calculated

09.08.2016

GS Sh. A K.Kaushik ,JGS Sh. V.P.Bharadwaj, AGS Sh. Rajib kumar along with GS , FS, AGS HQ of AIBSLNEA and GS ,VP and OS AIGETOA attended a meeting with the Chairman of 3rd PRC Hon’ble Justice Shri Satish Chandra, Member Secretary Shri Madhukar Gupta (Addl Secretary, DPE) and Member (PRC) Shri Shailendra Pal Singh, Ex-Director (HR), NTPC Ltd. Wherein GS presented the views of the TEAM as per the questionnaire. Hon’ble Chairman and Members of 3rd PRC gave a patient observation and hearing to the presentation on all the items of questionnaire and discussed most of the items in details.

After detailed discussions mainly on affordability, similar standard pay scales in all PSU except perks and allowance which may be decided by the concerned PSUs, IDA Pension revision to MTNL Pensioners and superannuation benefits to the PSU employees etc Hon’ble Chairman and Members of 3rd PRC asked us to give a brief enumerating the points of aspirations of the MTNL Executives. Hon’ble members of 3rd PRC assured to consider genuine aspiration of MTNL Executives. The meeting lasted for more than one and half hours.

08.08.2016

TEAM had sought a meeting with the Chairman of 3rd Pay Revision Committee to hear our views on proposed pay revision . We had responded to a questionnaire on the subject.

The desired meeting was held on 08.08.2016 with the chairman of 3rd PRC in his office at CGO. The details of the meeting will be uploaded shortly.

06.08.2016

Salaries and pension take up 70 per cent of MTNL’s revenue : MTNL spends 70 per cent of its revenue on salaries and pension of its staff which has affected its financial condition, Communications Minister Manoj Sinha told Rajya Sabha today. Sinha gave this information while replying to questions.During the Question Hour, he also said that the Cabinet has approved the revision of pension of BSNL pensioners, who retired prior to June 10, 2013 at par with serving employees of BSNL.

The number of such retired employees is over 1,18 lakh and the estimated annual expenditure comes to Rs 129.63 crore for pensioners and Rs 24.93 crore for family pensioners approximately, the minister said.A news from Indian Express………

A general Body Meeting of Executives of Broad Band (O) was held on 02.08.2016 in room no.756 of Kidwai Bhwan. Members raised many points with regards to working problems. AS BB wrote a letter to GM(BB) for granting a meeting with representatives of TEAM to discuss these valuable points.

Demonstration against said Govt’s Proposal for strategic sale out of MTNL and BSNL was held on 03.08.2016 during lunch hour. The demonstration was a huge success as nearly all associations and unions of MTNL and BSNL took part in this demonstration. All leaders of various organisations addressed the gathering and made aware them with the dangers of proposed sale of companies.

02.08.2016

Massive Demonstration by United Forum of MTNL & BSNL Unions and Associations

Comrades as already communicated A Massive Demonstration has been called by United Forum of MTNL & BSNL Unions and Associations as a protest action on 03.08.2016 country wide in protest of proposal of strategic sale out of BSNL and MTNL. In Delhi this demonstration will be held during lunch hour on 03.08.2016 at Eastern Court while In Mumbai the demonstration will be held at CGM BSNL Maharshtra Circle Office Juhu Danda Santacruz West during lunch hour on 03.08.2016.

It is appealed to one and all executives to participate in this Demonstration for making this protest action a grand success.

02.08.2016

ED Delhi office issued a letter for calling of CR for 9 Telecom executives for financial up-gradation from E5 to E6.

The representative of various unions & Association of MTNL & BSNL i.e., S/Sh. Prahlad Rai, General Secretary AIBSNLEA, Kishan Singh, General Secretary (AIRBSNLEWA), Mange Ram Sharma, General Secretary/MTNL Staff union, A.K. Kaushik, General Secretary, TEAM and M.K. Bagchi Convener/ United Forum met Sh. J.S. Deepak, Secretary (Telecom)/ DOT and discussed about the prospect of future pension revision in MTNL/BSNL. While handing over a written joint representation to the Secretary (Telecom), the representatives have requested him to take up this matter with 3rd PRC. He has ensured us in this respect.

The representatives met Sh. S. Meenakshi Sundram, Director DPE on this issue and handed over a letter. The letter on pension revision is handed over also to Dr. Madhukar Gupta, Secretary DPE (Member Secretary/ PRC).

30.07.2016

5th day in continuation…. Neither Tired Nor Defeated.

The battle is on and alive against Gundaism and negative attitude of administration. Comrades !!! it is not just a question of one incident. It is not question of one executive. We stand whenever justice is denied. It is only TEAM our association ,who stood firmly against such Gunda elements who want to resolve the problem not by means of argument but by means of muscle power. Administration plays always negative role in such battles because covered officers cannot provide justice and for prevailing truth lot of courage is required. The Situation and the conditions are not in our favour but even then our fighting comrades who are continuing this battle since 5 days have firm believe that they are going to win this battle with logistic approach of central and circle leadership. GS and CS are taking this issue with TOP management of MTNL and it is supposed that some positive result may come out.

TEAM sincerely thanks to each executive irrespective of association whosoever had participated in our Grand Programme of Dharna at office of GM(North). We invite all likeminded executives/employees for joining our struggle. Please be unite against Gundaism and negative attitude of administration.

UNITY IS ONLY SOLUTION FOR RESOLVING SUCH ISSUES

Come One ! Come All !!! Come One ! Come All !!!

30.07.2016

Unions and Association of MTNL and BSNL gave notice to Secretary DOT for Nation wide Lunch hour Demonstration on 03.08.2016 for strategic sale out of BSNL and MTNL by Niti Aayog.

In Delhi Lunch Hour Demonstration will be held at Eastern court on 03.08.2016 . It is requested to one and all for participating in this programme wholeheartedly .

1)Government starts process to appoint full-time CMD for MTNL:

State-run MTNL will soon get a full-time chairman and managing director (CMD), as the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has formed a search-cum-selection committee for such an appointment with a tenure of five years.The state-run telecom company, which offers services in Delhi and Mumbai, has been without a full-time CMD since May 30, 2014, when A K Garg retired from the post.P K Purwar, director (finance) of MTNL, was given additional charge for the post from June 2014. From June 2015 to June 2016, N K Yadav, who is member (services), held the charge.Purwar was again given the additional charge in June 2016, after completion of Yadav’s tenure.Candidates are required to submit their applications before September 8, 2016. A news from Business Standard…

2)MTNL blocks Port 25 on its network to keep spam & DDoS in check:State owned telco and ISP MTNL is blocking a part of its broadband network that allows sending of emails through private email servers after ISPs in Mumbai came under a heavy DDoS attack last week, crippling internet speeds in the city. MTNL will be blocking ‘Port 25’ used for sending emails on private servers, which will essentially stop spammers and hackers from sending out bulk emails in a network using hijacked PCs.A news from Medianama…..

Our North Area’s brave Executives are struggling with the culture of Gundaism and Negative Attitude of Administration. They performed day long Dharna in front of GM(North) office at Sec-3 Rohini,Delhi. The Dharna was most successful . GS along with his CHQ colleagues and CS with his Circle Colleagues participated in it with more than 70 Area Executives of North .

But GM(North) escaped from his office for full day and did not show any courage to sort out the problem. We humbly appeal to GM(North) and Administration of Delhi Unit for kind intervention so that peace atmosphere and working environment may be restored at North area at earliest.

Now it is moral duty of all executives for extending full support in favour of our fighting executives of North Area. The Dharna programme is continued for today too at same venue. Therefore it is requested that executives of near by area whosoever may approach venue easily , may reach at Dharna Place positively. Please strengthen your own unity and fight against injustice.

26.07.2016

Consequent upon the unwanted and shameful silence of administration of GM (NORTH) on the incident of manhandling with Sh. B.B.Raijada a meeting of furious executives of GM (North) was held on 25.07.2016 . Wherein all executives expressed their justified anger against negative attitude of GM(North) . It was resolved unanimously that TEAM North area will launch a protest action programme as one day long Dharna in front of office of GM(North) at Sector-3 Rohini, Delhi, on 26.07.2016 for fulfilling following demands:

Suspension of culprits with immediate effect.

FIR against each culprits.

Transfer of GM(North).

25.07.2016

Corporate office issued a letter to Delhi and Mumbai Unit wherein it has been asked to reply the current vacancy position of CAO in their respective units.

It is to inform you all, that Area North of MTNL Delhi became witness to another black day on 22.07.2016 as our Senior Executive Sh. B.B.Raijada was manhandled by a group of employees led by Mr. Kamlesh and Surender Babla working as clerks in the offices. GM (North ) is playing very negative role and completely failed to control area technically and administratively. Many times our representatives provided him feed back but he could not take stringent action . Our Area Secy. has written a letter to call immediate meeting with representatives of TEAM failing which association will be left with no alternative except to start Trade union Programme without further notice.

Thousands of Executives, Employees and retirees of MTNL have staged Lunch Hour Demonstration under the banner of United Forum of unions and Associations of MTNL at the office of CMD MTNL CGO Complex in Delhi and Telephone House at Mumbai today i.e.on 22.07.2016 during Lunch Hour.They have raised slogans in favour of immediate realisation of their age old demands.

*78.2% neutralization in pay revision as on 01.01.2007.

*Fresh Pension option for pro-rata pensioners of MTNL.

*Immediate implementation of medical facility under CGHS

The leaders of various associated organizations of United Forum have addressed the huge gathering and declared that more stringent form of agitation will be held in near future if the demands are not realised by MTNL/DOT.

“A section of the press has carried a news report that Niti Aayog may consider strategic sale in BSNL and MTNL,” Niti Aayog stated in a release.

“There is no such proposal with Niti Aayog and the report is factually incorrect,” it added.According to media reports, the government was considering strategic sale in the telecom majors to revive its growth. A news from The Statement……..

Niti Aayog may consider strategic sale in BSNL, MTNL:Government’s think-tank Niti Aayog may consider state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) for strategic disinvestment, a senior government official said.The incumbent government, has on several occasions, blamed the previous regime for the financial decline of the two telecom service providers. Former telecom minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had said on prior occasions that in 2004, BSNL was incurring profits of around Rs 10,000 crore and MTNL Rs 900 crore. However, when the NDA government took charge in 2014, the BSNL was suffering a loss of Rs 8,000 crore and MTNL Rs 2,000 crore.The Niti Aayog has submitted a list of 74 sick and loss making public sector undertakings (PSUs) to the government for the purpose of shutting down and restructuring, the official said, adding that discussions were now happening between ministries on finalising the details. The official said that while Air India was a part of the list submitted to the Centre, Niti Aayog has recommended that its restructuring exercise be continued. A news from Indian Express……

GS Sh. A.K.Kaushik along with AGS Sh. Rajeeb Kumar, CP Sh.K.R.yadav and CS Sh. S.P.S.Yadav had a meeting with Member Service Sh. N.K.Yadav . The various problems with regards to improvement in Services provided by MTNL were discussed.Hon’ble Member Service took a serious not of our valuable suggestion and assured us that as Member Service whenever any matter with respect to MTNL will come to him; he will take immediate steps.

Thereafter he discussed us for our ongoing agitation programme (under banner of UFOM) for achieving 78.2% IDA neutralization and one more option for pro-rata pensioners. We told him very categorically that the agitation cannot be suspended without achieving our justified demands. Further GS raised the issue of merger of MTNL with BSNL.Member Service suggested us to take the matter with the present Hon’ble Minister of communication . He assured us that whatever help can be extended from DOT , he will extend it immediately.

,

14.07.2016

on 13.07.2016 Sh. R.B.Aggarwal AS West along with Sh. Rajeeb Kumar AGS,Sh. G.R.Singh VP and Sh. Mukul Tiwari CEC member met with Sh. A.K.SIngh GM(West) to discuss the various problems of executives of west area. Association suggested various means for betterment of services in area to which GM agreed and appreciated.

GM promised to take care of the problems of executives as raised by us. The meeting was held in very cordial atmosphere.

14.07.2016

Hungama partners with MTNL for exclusive Entertainment service: Hungama has partnered with MTNL to launch an exclusive entertainment service for MTNL’s broadband userrs in Mumbai and Delhi.

Users can get access to music, movies, videos and games at mtnl.hungama.com. “The association with MTNL is a crucial step in strengthening our distribution across platforms. With this, we now share our services with two of the country’s leading telecom and broadband majors – MTNL and BSNL and are confident of consolidating our presence across other broadband services as well,” Siddhartha Roy, CEO, Hungama.com said. “Our partnership with Hungama reiterates our commitment to offer value to our customers from time to time. With this association with Hungama we bring to them the best of entertainment that can be consumed seamlessly at high broadband speeds,” P.K. Purwar, CMD, MTNL said. A news from Indian Express……..

On 08.07.2016 General Secretary Sh. A.K.Kaushik ji ,along with JGS Sh. V.P.Bharadwaj, CP Sh. K.R.yadav,AGS Sh. Rajeeb Kumar , OS Sh. R.D.Ahirwar,AS Sh. Naresh Kumar and Sh. Ranjan Yadav Executive member Central met and welcomed Newly appointed Hon’ble Minister of communication Sh. Manoj Sinha on his assuming charge in his office at Sanchar Bhawan. TEAM welcomed him by presenting a flower bouquet and Shawl. We extended him all the best for his new assignment.

1)Cabinet approves BSNL pension revision:The Union Cabinet at a meeting here chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday approved pension revision to the retirees of public sector telecom company Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) by allowing the benefit of merger of 50 per cent DA/DR with basic pay.The pension revision for BSNL pensioners and family pensioners will amount to 78.2 per cent DA/DR for the purpose of fitment and modifying BSNL’s liability towards pensionary benefits payments to retired employees.“The decision of the Cabinet has come in the wake of an anomalous situation created in the difference of pension formula among the BSNL retirees, who retired before and after June 10, 2013,” said a cabinet communique.Pension has been revised with effect from January 1, 2007 for BSNL pensioners who retired before June 10, 2013 to be on par with serving BSNL employees.Also, the pension liability of Department of Telecommunications (DOT), Department of Telecom Services (DTS) and Department of Telecom Operations (DTO) who retired before October 1, 2010 will be solely borne by the central government while BSNL will have no liability in respect of these employees.A news from Business Standard.

2)BSNL operating profit to be over Rs 2,000 crore this year:Ravi Shankar Prasad :State-run BSNL will post over three-fold jump in its operating profit at Rs 2,000 crore for financial year 2015-16, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said today.

“BSNL was in heavy loss. We brought it in operating profit of Rs 672 crore in first year (of coming to power). Audit is on. By end of August when final audited result will be declared then BSNL will strike an operating profit of over Rs 2000 plus this year,” Prasad told reporters after the Cabinet meeting . A news from Economic Times…..

Today on 05 July 2016 very well organized Massive Demonstration held under banner of UFOM Delhi and Mumbai at K.L.Bhawan and Telephone House Mumbai respectively . Huge number of working employees/ executives and retirees participated in the demonstration during lunch hour.

In Delhi after demonstration the meeting was addressed by all leaders of various organizations . GS TEAM Sh. A.K.Kaushik addressed the meeting and explained that like various issues have been resolved by TEAM / UFOM in past , in the same fashion these issues will be resolved. Already the matter of CGHS facility has been resolved for retirees of MTNL. For CGHS facility only some administrative orders are awaited and thereafter the facility will be made available to all. He congratulated all present executives/employees for participating in huge number and appealed to one and all for joining their hands in nexet demonstration to be held on 22july2016 during lunch hour at Corporate Office CGO complex. ND.

Tax refund booster for MTNL: Mahanagar Telephone Nigam has received an income tax refund for assessment year 2000-01 amounting to ₹112.95 crore. The amount includes ₹52.35 crore towards interest on the refund, it said. The telecom major posted a net profit of ₹174.60 crore for the quarter ended March 2016 on revenues of ₹835.80 crore. However, for fiscal 2015-16, MTNL had reported a loss of ₹2,005.72 crore on revenues of ₹3,197.41 crore. A news from Business line…

It is for information to all executives that United Forum of Unions and Association of MTNL has already conveyed our next phase of Protest Action Programme to management of MTNL in support of our long pending agenda of: